Newcastle United and West Ham United are tracking the situation of Attila Szalai at Fenerbahce, with a summer move likely to materialise.
According to Turkiye Gazetesi, Attila Szalai is a definitive target for West Ham United and Newcastle United. The 24-year-old centre-back could have left last summer, but Fenerbahce kept him on board after the sale of Kim Min-jae.
Attila Szalai is one of the formidable names from the last few seasons, as he continues to make a mark in Turkish football. The 24-year-old centre-back was heavily linked with a Premier League move last season. But Fenerbahce kept him on board to protect their defensive ranks.
The Turkish giants could have made a solid sale had they let Szalai leave. Manager Jorge Jesus insisted on keeping the 24-year-old centre-back on board after the transfer of his partner Kim Min-jae to Napoli.
That operation was worth a reported €18 million, and Szalai could have fetched a good figure. Had they sold the Hungarian international, Fenerbahce’s defence would have weakened. Thanks to Szalai’s hard work in defence, they sit at the top of the Turkish Super Lig standings, two points ahead of rivals Galatasaray.
Szalai wants to win the league title with Fenerbahce and expects a summer move away from the club. The 24-year-old centre-back dreams of playing in the Premier League, and there is a fair bit of interest in the Hungarian. West Ham United were in negotiations last summer and could revive their interest after the season.
Talks broke down between the Hammers and Fenerbahce, but David Moyes may look to resume the pursuit next summer. Despite signing Nayef Aguerd and Thilo Kehrer, the West Ham manager feels the team needs a more formidable presence to partner Kurt Zouma.
Szalai is a top-rated defender for Fenerbahce, and West Ham could benefit from having him on board. Playing for a London-based side could prove tempting for the 24-year-old centre-back. But the Hammers face tough competition from Newcastle United.
The Magpies have bought well since the appointment of Eddie Howe as their manager. They have strengthened their backline with the signing of Sven Botman in the summer. The manager would like more additions to fortify the centre-back position. And Newcastle United have shown interest in Evan Ndicka as well.
Szalai could be a valuable addition next summer, as Newcastle United could finish in European positions. Howe will need top quality in depth, and Szalai may even become their starting centre-back. When the season ends, interest in the 24-year-old centre-back could intensify. There could be more clubs in the mix around the summer, as the Hungarian could realise his dream of playing in the Premier League.
